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Candida species culture (from blood)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test checks for the presence of *Candida* yeast organisms in your blood, which can indicate a serious fungal infection called candidemia.

Quick summary

["Blood cultures help diagnose infections that may require urgent treatment to prevent complications."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
554-6
Short code
CANDSTL
Synonyms
Candida Stl Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
stool
Container
Sterile, leak-proof, wide-mouth container with tight-fitting lid (e.g., plastic stool specimen cup); no preservative required for culture
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
CPT
87102
SNOMED
3952007
Specimen volume
1-5 grams of stool (approximately walnut-sized portion); minimum 1 gram recommended
Stability
Room temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 24 hours. Transport to laboratory as soon as possible. Do not freeze for culture purposes.
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or signs of infection (such as redness, swelling, or pain) and suspect a fungal bloodstream infection. It’s also used in monitoring patients who are at higher risk, such as those with weakened immune systems, recent surgeries, or long-term medical devices (like catheters).

What Does the Test Involve?

Blood is drawn from a vein, placed in special containers, and sent to a lab where it’s cultured to grow any yeast or fungal organisms that may be present. Results take several days to confirm growth, if any exists. This is not a quick test for specific Candida types but confirms if an infection is present in your bloodstream.

What Are Common Findings?

If Candida grows in the culture, it means you have a fungal bloodstream infection. The lab will also identify the specific Candida species (e.g., *Candida albicans*, *Candida glabrata*). Without growth, no fungal infection is detected in this sample at the time of testing.

What Does This Test Tell You About My Health?

Positive results indicate a need for antifungal treatment tailored to the identified organism. Negative results mean no fungal organisms were found in this sample, but infections can still occur elsewhere in your body. Follow-up tests or cultures may be needed if symptoms persist.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: stool

No special preparation or dietary restrictions required. Patient should avoid use of antifungal medications (oral or topical) for at least 48-72 hours prior to collection if clinically feasible, as antifungal therapy may yield false-negative results. Recent barium studies, laxatives, or antidiarrheal agents may affect recovery; consult laboratory for guidance.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Blood Culture for Fungal Infection

Frequently asked questions

What Are My Next Steps If I Have Questions About My Results?
If your blood culture grows Candida, your doctor will prescribe antifungal medications based on the specific type detected. You may need additional tests (like blood cultures again or imaging) to check for spread to other organs. If results are negative but you still feel unwell, discuss symptoms with your provider—further testing may be needed to rule out other infections or conditions.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Results typically take 3–7 days, depending on lab processing. You may receive preliminary findings sooner, but final confirmation of fungal growth requires incubation and identification by a microbiologist.
Can I Prevent Candida Blood Infections?
Yes! Reduce risk by maintaining good hygiene, avoiding excessive antibiotic use (which can disrupt gut flora), and managing conditions like diabetes or weakened immunity. If you have a medical device (like a catheter), follow proper care instructions to prevent contamination.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy